"This (center) is the only one in Lee County with a separate dedicated training facility," said Century 21 Selling Paradise owner/broker Robert Mahan. "It is unique in that there is very little training available for new or experienced agents. We have created a niche for a tremendous amount of training to help new agents get up and operating and for experienced agents to get to the next level. It is open to all agents in Lee County and is 100 percent free."

The training center offers a series of classes five days a week. Classes range from company orientation, HUD training, Matrix training, business plan, time management, multiple listing, listing agreements and sales contracts, as well as marketing instructions.

"It is important that more agents have more knowledge and professionalism in their craft," said Mahan, who has been training agents for the past 12 years. "It is better for the agent and for the public."

Mahan trains all of the new agents that join his firm in addition to any agent wanting to attend.

"We focus on our own agents first," said Mahan. "We have a strong program for new agents and hold quarterly seminar events for everyone.

Mahan, 63, earned his real estate license in 1978 in Oregon. He operated in Oregon and California before moving to Cape Coral 15 years ago. He established Century 21 Selling Paradise in 2002 and was recently named the 2013 Broker of the Year by the Cape Coral Association of Realtors for his dedication to training agents as well as service to the association's board of directors.

The grand opening celebration on Thursday, Feb. 20, will be shared between Mahan's main office and training center. It runs from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Attendees will enjoy music, food, beverages, network with colleagues, as well as cash and prize giveaways.

Agents attending classes and seminars at the Education & Training Center learn skills and gain expertise necessary to guide clients through the process of buying and selling real estate. Agents practice and learn the dialogs to converse intelligently with potential clients and all parties involved in a transaction.

Live seminars and classes are presented by Mahan as well as three full-time and two part-time instructors. The rapid start program aims to have new agents up and running in as little as 30 days.